Fun Family Dog Games and Toys

There are lots of dog toys and dog games that you and your family can play with your dog. They are not only fun for the dog, but they are fun for you too.

Positive play with your dog helps meet the dog’s social needs by interacting with its owners and children and helps to strengthen the bond between owner and dog. Dogs are intelligent creatures and with practice you can teach them fun games to play.

The Frisbee is probably one of the most fun toys you can purchase for your dog. Although so simple, the Frisbee can be used with or without the dog joining in. Family members toss the Frisbee to each other and play “Keep Away” from the dog.

Be sure not to let this game get out of control and aggressive. You can play one on one with your dog by tossing the Frisbee in the air and letting the dog jump to get it and bring back to you. Be warned that the dog will let this go on for hours and you will tire out first!

The same goes for a ball. There are so many sizes and varieties of balls to choose from ranging from balls that make noise to balls that light up to balls that glow in the dark. Some games to play with the ball are fetch, bounce and “Hide the Ball”. Dogs love to chase balls, and they are probably the most inexpensive and long lasted dog toys to be purchased.

Homemade agility courses can be set up in the backyard for the dog. All you need are objects such as PVC piping, benches, boxes, low bars, high bars and anything else you can think of. Have the dog follow family members through the course.

Another fun game is silly pet tricks. Have family members teach the dog new tricks and reward the dog with a treat!

If you live in an area that snows in the winter, family members can create hills and tunnels for the dog. Games such as “Find the Treat” are fun during the winter season when treats and toys can be buried in the snow.

Remember to select the appropriate type of play, especially around children. Because children like to scream, squeal, run and jump, activities should be structured around the age of the family members. Dog play can be rough and dogs do not know that children can get hurt. With supervision dogs and children can enjoy playtime together.

With a bit of effort and creativity, a dog owner can think up lots of fun and inexpensive ways to enjoy playtime with their dog. Only love and affection can be gained by spending quality time with your dog.

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